Quick Read: Keypoint

• Rumor Alert: Spanish striker Angel Rodado linked with East Bengal FC, but no official confirmation yet.
• Squad Overhaul: East Bengal signs Bipin Singh and Martand Raina, parts ways with Yuste, Bouli, and Celis.
• Striker Needed: Rodado’s 11 goals in Poland’s Ekstraklasa could boost East Bengal’s attack post-Cleiton Silva.
• Fan Buzz: X posts hype Rodado as a game-changer, though skepticism remains without an announcement.

Kolkata, June 16, 2025. The Red and Gold Brigade is generating excitement among fans as rumors spread about a possible major signing: Spanish striker Angel Rodado. East Bengal FC is busy reshaping its squad for the 2025-26 Indian Super League (ISL) season. Whispers of Rodado joining the Kolkata team have ignited social media chatter. But is there any truth to this speculation, or is it just another transfer tease?

A New Dawn for East Bengal
East Bengal recently finished a mixed 2024-25 season, coming in ninth in the ISL and getting knocked out of the AFC Challenge League in the quarterfinals. Head coach Oscar Bruzon, who just signed a one-year contract extension, wants the club to regain its past success. The team has already made significant moves in the transfer market, bringing in talents like Bipin Singh from Mumbai City FC and Martand Raina from Rajasthan United for over ₹25 lakh. They’ve also let go of foreign stars like Hector Yuste, Rafael Messi Bouli, and Richard Celis, signaling a major squad change.

Who Is Angel Rodado?
Angel Rodado is a 28-year-old forward who has been making a name for himself in European football. Known for his precise finishing and versatility, Rodado has played in Spain’s lower divisions and recently excelled with Wisła Kraków in Poland’s Ekstraklasa. He reportedly scored 11 goals in the 2024-25 season. His ability to play as a central striker or move into wider areas makes him an appealing option for East Bengal, which has struggled with consistent goal-scoring.

Fans on X are buzzing with rumors, with some saying Rodado could be the “missing piece” for East Bengal’s attack, especially after Cleiton Silva left the club before the Super Cup 2025. One post on X excitedly stated, “Rodado’s pace and finishing could be a game-changer for EBFC! Imagine him linking up with Dimitrios Diamantakos!” While these posts show fan enthusiasm, there has been no official confirmation.

Why East Bengal Needs a Striker Like Rodado
Last season, East Bengal’s attack relied heavily on players like Raphael Messi Bouli, who impressed with his skill but couldn’t keep the team from finishing mid-table. The newcomers, including Edmund Lalrindika and Bipin Singh, bring energy, but a proven goal-scorer could raise their goals. Rodado’s record indicates he could fill the gap left by Silva, bringing both goals and creativity.

A source close to the club hinted that East Bengal wants to strengthen their foreign lineup, mentioning, “The management is looking for a forward who can lead the line and add a new dimension to our play.” While Rodado’s name wasn’t specifically mentioned, he fits the ideal profile.

The Transfer Rumor Mill
Despite the excitement, no reliable reports from major outlets like Sportstar or the Indian Super League website have confirmed East Bengal’s interest in Rodado. The club’s recent transfer activity, including competing with Mohun Bagan for Punjab FC’s Abhishek Tekcham, shows they’re willing to go after top talent. However, financial constraints and the ISL’s foreign player rules could complicate a move for Rodado.

Opinions on X are divided. Some fans are doubtful, with one user commenting, “East Bengal signing Rodado? Sounds too good to be true. Let’s wait for an official announcement first.” Others are more hopeful, believing that Bruzon’s connection to Spain could attract the striker to Kolkata. These posts, while lively, remain speculative and shouldn’t be taken as certainty.

What’s Next for the Red and Gold?
As East Bengal gears up for the upcoming ISL season and defends their Super Cup title, the focus is on creating a squad that can compete with rivals like Mohun Bagan and Bengaluru FC. The club’s women’s team has already set a high standard, winning the Indian Women’s League title and qualifying for the AFC Women’s Champions League. The men’s team, under new Head of Football Thangboi Singto, is eager to follow suit.

Whether Angel Rodado joins the team is still unclear, but the idea of a European striker wearing the iconic red and gold jersey has fans dreaming big. Will East Bengal make a successful transfer, or is this just another rumor in Kolkata’s passionate football scene?